YouSaid · the spoken record

Wisnumurti

lines on the record
497
first
1992-07-15
most recent
1997-03-06
sittings or episodes
62
sources
un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

  1. Although UN ITA continues to profess its commitment to the peace process, we wish to stress that it cannot continue to stall the implementation of the Lusaka accord, lest it jeopardize the entire peace process. Before concluding, I would like to convey my delegation's appreciation to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Beye, for his tireless endeavours to further the peace process, and to the personnel of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM. III) for their work under difficult circumstances. We also recognize the efforts of the three observer States and, finally, we would like to commend the efforts of the countries of the region, especially the States members of SADC.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  2. At the same time, we strongly urge Mr. Savimbi to show his good faith by participating in the forthcoming summit. Angola remains a point of instability in southern Africa. Resolution of this conflict will contribute greatly to the establishment of peace and cooperation in the region. At this crucial juncture, it is essential that President Dos Santos and Mr. Jonas Savimbi continue to meet and resolve all remaining issues of contention, including constitutional matters. Having expressed its position on the developments in Angola, the Indonesian delegation is ready to support the Secretary-General's recommendation that the mandate of UNAVEM. Ill be extended. We will endorse the option of a shorter-term mandate, until mid-December.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  3. While national reconciliation may prove to be a long and arduous task, the parties themselves have committed to this path, which is imperative for the future of Angola. We continue to believe that the Government of Angola and UNITA will strictly uphold their obligations under the Lusaka Protocol and the commitments they entered into at the meeting in Libreville, Gabon, on 1 March 1996. It is in this context that the Indonesian delegation fully supports any measures that will further encourage the parties to keep the process on track. The recent regional initiatives taken by SADC to pursue the process must be supported by the international community. My delegation is encouraged by SADC's intention to convene another summit, and stresses the need to create a favourable atmosphere to ensure the participation of Mr. Savimbi.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  4. The beginning of nation-building can, unfortunately, be jeopardized, given the economic and political challenges that Angola must still surmount, as well as the lack of mutual trust and confidence among the parties. My delegation hopes in the near future to see serious efforts in disarming, demobilizing and reintegrating former soldiers into civilian life; the completion of the formation of the Angolan Armed Forces; and the extension of State administration throughout the country. Substantial progress in these areas is fundamental for ensuring peace, security and stability in the country. Angola has been ravaged by civil war for more than two decades, and the divisions are deep.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  5. It is jeopardizing the new planting season and is also posing a serious threat to the resettlement of internally displaced persons. In this regard, we must commend UNAVEM. III and the United Nations for their efforts in demining and in training in demining. We encourage close cooperation between the various agencies, and call on UNITA and all parties to respect the mandate of UNAVEM. III. We are also quite concerned by the reports of harassment of humanitarian relief workers. We call on all parties to respect their security and activities. The goal of national reconciliation, towards which all the parties in Angola are striving, is not easy to attain.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  6. However, we note that ceasefire violations persist in the diamond-producing provinces. Another area in which UNAVEM. III has clearly contributed to enhancing security is in that of landmine clearance. However, the continuation of the practice of placing new mines does not reflect positively on the desire of the parties to cease fighting. This practice, which is a veritable scourge in Angola, is affecting the operational capacities and the safety of UNAVEM. III personnel. My delegation expresses its deep regret at the casualties suffered by UNAVEM. III troops due to landmines. Also, the fact that UNITA has placed restrictions on UNAVEM. III in its demining operations is unacceptable. The presence of mines is impeding the rehabilitation of rural communities.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  7. III of insufficient quantities of weapons and the poor quality of those handed over, and the continued presence of UNITA police. Furthermore, prospects for progress have been dashed by the refusal of Mr. Jonas Savimbi to participate in the summit of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security, held on 2 October 1996 in Luanda. All of these developments have cast serious doubt on the political will of UNITA in implementing the Lusaka Protocol. The international community has invested a great deal in the efforts to promote peace and national reconciliation in Angola. UNAVEM. III, which is currently the largest of the United Nations peacekeeping operations, has contributed considerably to the improvement of the situation in the country, notably the ceasefire, which is generally holding.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  8. Our initial hope that the parties had embarked on a definite path towards national reconciliation has been frustrated by the continued failure in the implementation of the provisions of the Lusaka Protocol according to the agreed timetable and outlines established by the Security Council. The lack of progress in the implementation of the Protocol has rendered the task of UNAVEM. III infinitely more difficult. The failure of UNITA to take concrete steps in compliance with the Lusaka Protocol as scheduled is alarming. We must note with deep concern the delays, particularly in the areas of the quartering of UNITA troops; the selection of soldiers for incorporation into the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA); and the slow process of the transfer of UNITA commanding officers to join the FAA, as well as the handing over to UNAVEM.

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  9. My delegation would like to begin by welcoming the timeliness of this open debate on Angola. We would also like to warmly welcome the ministerial delegation of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security to this Security Council meeting. Indeed, the lack of progress in the peace process, which is a source of concern to the international community, clearly warrants the convening of this meeting. The presence of the SADC ministerial delegation reflects the seriousness of the situation in Angola, as described by the Secretary-General in his comprehensive report on the implementation of the Lusaka Protocol and on the work of the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM. III).

    1996-10-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3702 (1996) · source

  10. However, since the continued presence of UNOMIL is contingent on ECOMOG's ability to ensure the safety of its personnel, it is therefore imperative for ECOMOG and UNOMIL to enhance coordination and cooperation. In the light of the observations I have just made and of the positive role UNOMIL can play in Liberia, the Indonesian delegation will vote in favour of this draft resolution extending the mandate of UNOMIL for another three months, until 30 November 1996. We expect the parties to see this period as an opportunity for them to demonstrate, through concrete steps, the political will to resolve their differences and to start out on the path towards national reconciliation and development.

    1996-08-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3694 (1996) · source

  11. Another aspect of the conflict that has to be kept in mind is how to reintegrate a generation of young Liberians who have known nothing but war for the past six years. Against this backdrop, we believe that the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) and the United Nations Observer Mission in Liberia (UNOMIL) can play a considerable role in contributing to the implementation of the Abuja Agreement and enhance its chances of moving forward. In this regard, we believe that the United Nations has a role to play, and we therefore support the recommendation of the Secretary-General to increase the number of military observers and civilian personnel to assist UNOMIL in carrying out its mandate.

    1996-08-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3694 (1996) · source

  12. The Council, furthermore, must urge all States to comply strictly with the embargo on all deliveries of weapons and military equipment to Liberia, in accordance with resolution 788 (1992). Touching on the humanitarian situation, my delegation remains concerned that relief workers are still being seriously impeded from delivering assistance to certain regions and that the safety of relief workers is still threatened. At this stage, no comprehensive humanitarian assistance can be constructed to meet the needs of Liberia, where socio-economic activities have ground to a halt. Furthermore, over half of Liberia's population continues to dwell in neighbouring countries as refugees. Conditions have to be created to promote the return of Liberians and the reconstruction of their country.

    1996-08-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3694 (1996) · source

  13. Ruth Perry as the new Chairperson of the restructured Council of State, which, we hope, will fully represent the will of all Liberians. We expect all faction leaders to respect the authority and impartiality of this body and its new leadership. In view of the tendency of faction leaders to renege on their past commitments, the international community and regional actors cannot but remain extremely vigilant. Several areas remain of great concern to us, particularly the lack of security that continues to reflect a dangerous and volatile situation, the persistent violations of basic human rights, and the continuing inflow of arms. In this regard, the disarming and demobilization of Liberia's militia members is also essential in establishing a durable cease-fire and permitting international peace-keepers to operate to their full potential.

    1996-08-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3694 (1996) · source

  14. Like previous speakers, my delegation would like to express its appreciation to the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report on the latest developments in Liberia. We are hopeful that the outcome of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit, held in Abuja on 17 August 1996, will lead to a durable peace in Liberia, with the new timetable serving as a formal framework for the peace process. It is worth noting and commending the strong regional leadership role of ECOWAS and its determination to ensure that the parties respect the agreement they themselves have entered into. We are also encouraged by the growing influence of Liberian civilian groups in the peace process, reflecting the aspirations of the Liberian people to end this ongoing tragedy. In this regard, we welcome the appointment of Ms.

    1996-08-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3694 (1996) · source

  15. In this regard, we are pleased to note the publication of the results of the International Commission of Inquiry that investigated the assassination in 1993 of Burundi's first elected President and the massacres that followed, in which both Tutsi and Hutu were killed. We would like to recall that all persons who committed or authorized the commission of serious violations of international humanitarian law are individually responsible for such violations and should be held accountable. Those responsible for crimes against humanity and, in this case, their fellow countrymen should be brought to justice. The United Nations can also contribute to the edification of an impartial and independent judicial system, as this would solve and correct one of the fundamental inequalities and causes of conflict in Burundi.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  16. The international community has a definite role to play in alleviating the risk of a humanitarian catastrophe in Burundi. Given this context, my delegation fully supports the establishment of humanitarian corridors which will not only alleviate the economic difficulties due to the sanctions, but may also reduce the risk of further escalation of tensions due to the shortage of basic humanitarian needs. We would also like to place our support behind the development of contingency planning for a rapid humanitarian response in the event of widespread violence or a serious deterioration of the situation in Burundi. Another role the Security Council can play is in promoting transparency and informing the international community of events in Burundi, both past and present.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  17. The desire of Burundians to break with the political traditions of the past and begin a dialogue conducive to national reconciliation has to be respected. Failure to do so will only permit the present situation of prevailing insecurity and impunity for violent acts to continue. In this context, we commend the swift and unified response of the countries of the region against those who are now in power in Burundi. The regional leadership has indeed taken measures to pressure Burundi to restore respect for constitutional legitimacy and resume the process of finding a comprehensive political settlement through dialogue and negotiations. It is essential for the international community to lend its support to those regional initiatives. Failure to do so will send the wrong signal to Bujumbura.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  18. To reach this goal, the international community should send a strong message to the leaders who are now in control in Bujumbura and take the necessary measures to ensure that, first, they undertake immediate and unconditional negotiations with all parties inside and outside the country; secondly, that they return to constitutional order and legality; thirdly, that they restore the National Assembly; and, fourthly, that they unban all political parties and assure the protection of their members. It is therefore imperative for the international community to assist in the effective organization of all-inclusive negotiations towards reaching a political settlement. It is our considered opinion that once negotiations have been undertaken in earnest, this would provide renewed impetus for the resolution of all aspects of this conflict.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  19. It symbolizes the continued control of one ethnic group over the reins of power. Military means have only provoked further violence as the country has fallen into a cycle of violence which seems to perpetuate itself. Clearly, the coup of 25 July 1996 has only complicated the already dangerous situation by reinforcing the fears on one side and strengthening extremists on both sides. The only viable solution can be found in the establishment of a political mechanism for power-sharing between the majority and the minority.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  20. The conundrum that Burundians must face in order to end any further ethnic massacres and to begin comprehensive negotiations is reflected in the views of Mr. Nyerere that to be successful, talks must find solutions for two problems: first, that the Hutu have been politically disenfranchised since independence 35 years ago and, secondly, that many Tutsi genuinely fear they will be massacred if the Hutu come to power. Hence, the conflict in Burundi stems from the deeply rooted perception that the survival of each community will be imperilled unless it secures the reins of power for itself. In this regard, we share the Secretary-General's View that the forceful overthrow of the legal Government in Burundi, which was elected to change the status quo through democratic means, will not solve the problems of the country.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  21. I would like to reiterate Indonesia's position that a peaceful solution to the conflict in Burundi can be attained only through negotiations and dialogue between all parties. In view of the dangerous potential for this conflict to spill over to the neighbouring countries, threatening peace and stability in the region, my delegation believes that any further procrastination and ambivalence on the part of the Security Council will not only have severe consequences for Burundi, but will also encourage the spread of instability in the Great Lakes region. It is in this context that we welcome the regional and international peace initiatives, particularly the efforts of former President Nyerere, which we fully support.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  22. Let me begin by expressing the Indonesian delegation's appreciation to you, Mr. President, for convening this formal meeting to address the situation in Burundi, an issue of urgent importance to the international community. We welcome this open debate, as it provides the opportunity for Member States to express their views, which will constitute valuable input for the Council. The international community is faced with a serious challenge to legitimacy and rule of law as a result of the coup d 'e'tat in Burundi, which has halted all efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, to avert the recurrence of genocide and to promote national reconciliation, especially those undertaken by the neighbouring States and spearheaded by former President Nyerere.

    1996-08-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3692 (1996) · source

  23. If fundamental principles are not respected, however good intentions may be, a resolution may not adequately address the matter. The draft resolution before us today essentially addresses the continued non-compliance by the Sudanese Government with the requests set out in paragraph 4 of resolution 1044 (1996) and reaffirmed in paragraph 1 of resolution 1054 (1996). Considering that the basic tenets remain that those responsible for the assassination attempt must be brought to justice and that the Sudan has the responsibility to comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions, and in the light of the observations I have just expressed, my delegation will vote in favour of the draft resolution.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  24. We would like to reiterate that, as a matter of principle, the imposition of sanctions as a means of bringing pressure to bear on Governments is a matter of utmost seriousness. Sanctions are not meant to be punitive. Therefore, the adverse humanitarian impact, in particular in the case of the Sudan, must not be so quickly dismissed. In this regard, it is my view that in order for a resolution to achieve its desired effects and to become an effective tool to rectify a situation, it is imperative to address not only the concerns of the issue at hand, but also to maintain strict adherence to the basic principle of non-punitive sanctions. For it would be a meaningless exercise if resolutions were adopted which were not implementable, as this would only affect the Council's own credibility.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  25. While fully realizing that, under paragraphs 4 and 5 of the draft resolution, implementation of these measures and consideration of all the aspects of the modalities of implementation would not be determined by the Council until 90 days after the date of adoption of the draft resolution on the basis of the facts established by the Secretary-General, we feel that the timing of incorporating such measures in the draft is not appropriate. Moreover, our understanding regarding these modalities would also include a fixed duration for the imposition of such sanctions. The Indonesian delegation is concerned about the extent of the impact of sanctions on the Sudan, since it is one of the poorest countries in the world. Their imposition would have detrimental effects on the innocent civilian population and impact negatively on the economy.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  26. We therefore cannot but express our reservations regarding the imposition of wide-ranging sanctions against Sudan Airways, as reflected in paragraph 3 of the draft resolution. Although the ban on Sudan Airways is primarily targeted at its international flights, we are none the less concerned that it would also have an impact on its domestic activities, particularly the transport of humanitarian needs, since these two aspects are closely interlinked.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  27. We also note that Sudan's letter of 2 July 1996 states that efforts are being made to enhance bilateral relations between Egypt and the Sudan as part of its intention to improve relations with its neighbouring countries. However, on the assumption that the three suspects are no longer in the country, the Sudan would not be in a position to comply fully with the provisions of the relevant resolutions. Given the insufficient information available at this juncture, we believe that it would be more constructive for the Council to further encourage the Sudan to undertake efforts to provide information on the suspects, including their whereabouts, by allowing more time and avoiding overly harsh measures that in the end may prove to be counterproductive in their attempt to ensure the Sudan's cooperation with the international community.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  28. Notwithstanding this, the Indonesian delegation has believed, from the beginning, that a gradual approach to dealing with the matter would have been preferable, particularly in the light of the efforts made by the Sudan. As reflected in the letters of 31 May 1996 and 24 June 1996, the Sudanese Government has made efforts to find two of the three suspects and has also called upon Interpol for assistance. It has also stated its condemnation of terrorism and has taken the necessary steps to ensure that it is not perpetrated from its territory. Moreover, the Sudanese Government has made efforts to extradite many possible perpetrators of terrorism. These efforts follow the spirit of paragraph 1 (b) of resolution 1054 (1996).

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  29. Indeed, the Indonesian delegation has always held a steadfast position against international terrorism, as that constitutes one of the most flagrant violations of human rights. In this regard, the Indonesian delegation wishes to reiterate its view that the Sudan bears the ultimate responsibility for fully complying with the provisions of Security Council resolutions 1044 (1996) and 1054 (1996) by apprehending the perpetrators of this act of violence, as well as by refraining from providing support or shelter to terrorists on its territory. We are therefore encouraged to note that this aspect has already been incorporated into paragraph 1 of the draft resolution before us.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  30. Let me begin by expressing the Indonesian delegation's appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report, contained in document S/1996/541 of 10 July 1996 and its addenda, concerning the implementation of Security Council resolution 1054 (1996). We consider that the report reflects a balanced and objective view, since it takes into account not only the measures taken by Member States but also the initiatives taken by the Sudanese Government in its efforts to comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions. We, like others, are deeply concerned by the assassination attempt against President Hosni Mubarak of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Addis Ababa in June 1995. Such an act of violence can only be decried in the strongest terms, and the perpetrators must be brought to justice.

    1996-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3690 (1996) · source

  31. For this to materialize, international consensus and concerted political will among the States of the global community are imperative in order to deal with the problem at its source.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  32. Finally, the capacity to train locals to establish sustainable demining capacities will be the only way to reduce the long-term effects of mines. The need for research in mine technology remains the area where the greatest efforts must be placed. The technology in use for mine detection and clearance is clearly outdated. The international community can undeniably contribute to the provision of properly trained and experienced instructors, trained manpower needed to carry out demining, training for local populations and appropriate and modern equipment to locate and destroy land-mines. We fully support all efforts in this context. The disastrous effects of land-mines can be curbed through technical and financial assistance to demining activities and programmes.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  33. It remains important that mine-clearance activities in the context of peace-keeping operations are linked closely to humanitarian activities from the very beginning in order to ensure a coordinated approach to the land-mine problem and the continuance of mine-related activities following the peace-keeping mandate. Demining efforts encounter many obstacles. The lack of adequate mapping of the layout of minefields is a serious handicap to demining teams. Time is needed to build national capacities for demining, and often teams have to use a case-by-case approach for the different countries in which they operate, since geography and mine types can vary drastically. The political will of the local authorities to cooperate with demining programmes can also seriously hinder or help in eliminating mines.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  34. Since setting up the process for mine-clearance and training can be lengthy, it is not surprising that the best results were evident in the programmes of longest standing. In Angola, the United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM. III) has set up a demining school which will become the core of the mine-clearance programme. In other areas there has been resistance: in Abkhazia, in Georgia, peace-keepers have encountered a great deal of resistance from the Abkhaz authorities, which has inhibited their ability to undertake mine-clearance and also carry out their mandate.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  35. An integrated approach to mine- clearance permits numerous agencies to coordinate their activities through the central office of DHA in order to operate effectively in the field. Other United Nations agencies, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the World Health Organization (WHO), also play fundamental roles in demining activities, which Indonesia fully supports. In the past year the United Nations has engaged in the implementation of demining in nine countries. Mine Action Centres were established in different countries by DHA. The mine-clearance operations in Afghanistan and Cambodia are among the most successful.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  36. The issue of mine-clearance is indeed complex, involving technical, financial, political and administrative facets. In dealing with the disastrous impact of land-mines on innocent civilians, my delegation considers the three approaches which warrant our careful scrutiny: international law, financial assistance and technical aid. The link between peace-keeping operations and humanitarian programmes is fundamental since they both function within the framework of peacemaking and post- conflict peace-building. Indonesia supports the inclusion in peace-keeping operation mandates of provisions relating to mine-clearance work. Such operations have in the past coordinated their activities with other United Nations departments and agencies. First and foremost, the Department of Humanitarian Affairs (DHA) has been the focal point for demining.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  37. The United Nations has legitimately called the world community's attention to the need for mine-clearance. In this regard, we are strongly supportive of the initiative to create the Voluntary Trust Fund for Assistance in Mine- clearance. The pledging of $22 million has rendered it operational. Such a fund permits a rapid disbursement of funds with a great deal of flexibility and efficiency to projects of an urgent nature. We contributed to this fund following the International Meeting on Mine-Clearance, held in Geneva in July 1995, and welcome its positive development. The Organization's basic approach to land- mine-clearance has been the principle of capacity-building which is sustainable once United Nations agencies and peace-keeping forces have withdrawn from the region.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  38. The obstruction to national reconstruction that mines create is a long-term problem. Given the circumstances I have described, my delegation welcomes the decisions of several States to impose a moratorium or ban on the production, export and operational use of these weapons. In this regard, my delegation believes that the review process of the Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons is essential because it offers the appropriate modality for dealing with land-mines and related devices. Indeed, the process of demining is a long term, dangerous and expensive process which may take decades. According to International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) sources, it would cost $33 billion to rid the world of land-mines at this stage.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  39. The loss of lives and destitution which the civilian populations have suffered during years of debilitating conflict is only perpetuated through the continued risks they endure as they try to return to their daily lives and rebuild their communities and their countries. Mines threaten all aspects of the socio-economic life of innocent people: arable land infested with mines is rendered useless; electrical plants, water sites and infrastructures are inaccessible; maimed victims, in addition to their own suffering, become burdens to their families and tax the often insufficient medical services; children make up more than half of the victims of land-mines; refugees cannot return to their homes and villages; new groups of displaced persons are created and humanitarian aid cannot reach the populations in need.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  40. With more than 20,000 people across the planet being killed or maimed in 1995 by mines, and considering that 85 million to 100 million land-mines remain uncleared in 65 countries, it seems that humanitarian tragedies are just waiting to happen, particularly given the fact that 20 times as many mines have been laid as have been removed. Indeed, the use of land-mines is not a static problem but a problem that continues to grow. In 1995, if 100,000 land- mines were removed another 2 million to 5 million were newly laid. The impact of land-mines is such that it affects all facets of national life. It is a dilemma for countries which are often already underdeveloped and where life cannot return to normal because of these deadly devices. Consequently, it has become a global dilemma.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  41. We therefore welcome this debate and exchange of views, which will hopefully permit a better grasp of the issues at stake and enhance our knowledge of how Member States can respond to the need for demining. Demining involves both humanitarian and disarmament aspects and in terms of the Charter remains the purview of the General Assembly. It is to be recalled that the General Assembly has deal with these aspects in the past, and adopted resolutions on them. The involvement of peace-keeping forces in mine-clearance does not in itself warrant a shift of responsibility from the General Assembly to the Security Council. The gravity of the problems attendant upon land- mines and related devices has long been self-evident.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  42. I would like to express my delegation's appreciation to you, Mr. President, for convening this formal meeting to address a rapidly growing issue: demining in the context of United Nations peace-keeping. In this regard, some of the approaches outlined in document S/1996/621 call for our careful consideration. Discussing this problem highlights the manner in which conflicts are being transformed and how the United Nations is responding to the challenges posed by humanitarian needs versus military imperatives. Indonesia participated in the international Meeting on Mine- clearance in Geneva in July 1995, reflecting its keen interest in the dilemma land-mines pose to countries immersed in or emerging from conflicts.

    1996-08-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3689 (1996) · source

  43. We would also like to thank Brigadier-General Hasan Abaza and the personnel of UNMOT for their untiring efforts in dangerous and fairly trying circumstances. Finally, we would like to welcome Mr. Gerd Merrem, in his twin roles as the new Special Representative of the Secretary- General and as the Head of Mission of UNMOT.

    1996-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3673 (1996) · source

  44. While we welcome the recent assurances of President Rakhmonov that the restrictions will be lifted, we are concerned that thus far there have been no tangible acts to that effect. We call upon all parties to cooperate with UNMOT. In the light of the situation prevailing in Tajikistan, it is evident that the role of UNMOT remains important. We take note of the fact that the Government of Tajikistan has stressed the importance of UNMOT'S continuing presence in the country. For these reasons, my delegation supports the extension of the mandate of UNMOT for another six months, as proposed by the Secretary-General, and will vote in favour of the draft resolution now before us. In conclusion, my delegation would like to pay tribute to Mr. Darko Silovic, who is now leaving the post of Head of Mission of UNMOT, for a job well done.

    1996-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3673 (1996) · source

  45. We are pleased to note that the rest of the situation in the country remains generally calm, although we take note of the potentially volatile situation in Leninabad after the occurrence of mass protests and the pursuant government intervention. We welcome the initiative of the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Gerd Merrem, during his recent mission to the region, and we hope that it will soon bear fruit by bringing the parties together at the negotiating table. In recent declarations, the Tajik Government and the United Tajik Opposition have agreed that only a political resolution to this conflict will bring about lasting peace and stability in Tajikistan. We deeply regret the restrictions on the freedom of movement imposed by the parties on the United Nations Mission of Observers in Tajikistan (UNMOT).

    1996-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3673 (1996) · source

  46. The continued fighting, the degradation of the humanitarian condition of the civilian population and the breakdown of the Ashgabat talks, as reported by the Secretary-General, are indeed alarming. We call upon all parties to halt the fighting immediately, in particular in Tavildara, and to permit the civilian population to return in peace and safety to their homes. We therefore welcome the statements by President Rakhmonov and Mr. Nuri accepting an extension of the cease-fire agreement. The news that the parties are in the process of agreeing to resume the inter- Tajik talks early in July is also encouraging.

    1996-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3673 (1996) · source

  47. Allow me to begin by extending my delegation's congratulations to you, Sir, upon your assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of June. We are convinced that with your diplomatic skill and vast experience you will guide the Council effectively. My delegation pledges its full cooperation to you and to your delegation. We would also like to express our appreciation to Ambassador Qin Huasun of China for his excellent leadership in presiding over the work of the Council last month. My delegation would like to extend its appreciation to the Secretary-General for his insightful report on the situation in Tajikistan, as contained in document S/1996/412.

    1996-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3673 (1996) · source

  48. Henryk Sokalski, formerly Chief of Mission and now redesignated as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. We should further like to extend our recognition to Brigadier-General Juha Engstrom, former sector Commander of UNPREDEP, and to welcome the recently appointed Force Commander, Brigadier-General Bo Wranker. We should also like to pay tribute to the men and women of UNPREDEP for their dedication in contributing to the maintenance of peace and stability in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

    1996-05-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3670 (1996) · source

  49. It would indeed be unwise to be overly confident that stability has been established in the region. Hence, terminating UNPREDEP would be premature. At the same time, the need to review the composition, strength and mandate of UNPREDEP in the light of future developments is one that has been well recognized in the draft resolution. At this juncture, we would like to reiterate that the continued success of the UNPREDEP mission is contingent upon the political will of the parties to do their utmost in refraining from all activities that are detrimental to the peace and stability of the country. In view of these considerations, my delegation will vote in favour of the draft resolution. Finally, we wish to acknowledge the untiring efforts of Mr.

    1996-05-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3670 (1996) · source

  50. We note as evidence of the improving regional situation the signing on 8 April 1996 of the Agreement between the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia regulating relations and promoting cooperation between them, as well as the progress that has been achieved in improving relations between the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Greece on the basis of the Interim Accord of 13 September 1995. We also are pleased to see the close cooperation between UNPREDEP and the mission of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in promoting security in the region. However, the peace process in the former Yugoslavia remains at a very delicate stage, and its consequences for the stability and security of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia remain uncertain.

    1996-05-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.3670 (1996) · source